Accepting Credit Cards

[AutoNova]

Just wanted to know if anyone had any advice on how to find the right company to use for merchant services. Does anyone currently take CC's for their detailing business and who do you use.

It is incredible the amount of freaking differences in the fees and rates among the companies I have looked at, what a pain.

[Tim Lingor]

Hey,

I moved your thread here, figuring that one of the many Pros that visit this area would be able to answer that question for you.

Tim

[AutoNova]

Thanks!

No responses yet, maybe not too popular a topic.

Just to clarify I am looking for a retail setup where I can have a machine to run the card and print out a receipt.

[Superior Shine]

I have been in biz for over 14 years and I don't except CC.

I don't think it is that important.
CHECKS OR CASH ONLY PLEASE!

[Jimmy Buffit]

I choose not to accept CC. Simply not a problem, when the client is informed in advance.

They seem to like the fact that we're not a chain, just a small, individualized business.

Jim

[DETLMAN]

I used to accept them but it didn't make a difference in lost/retained sales. The customer base I cater to has money and isn't concerned with credit.

[AutoNova]

My thought is this:

If you have a nice list of service upgrades and people can use credit cards, I think my average ticket would certainly increase b/c it is hitting people directly in the wallet. Also I think it adds a certain credibility to your business that you move with the financial needs of customers.

I did not choose chargeamerica.com, but it seemed like a good service for detailers and the cost is affordable.

[gb387]

Originally posted by AutoNova
My thought is this:

If you have a nice list of service upgrades and people can use credit cards, I think my average ticket would certainly increase b/c it is hitting people directly in the wallet. Also I think it adds a certain credibility to your business that you move with the financial needs of customers.

I did not choose chargeamerica.com, but it seemed like a good service for detailers and the cost is affordable.

I do not have my own business but... I never carry cash nor do I carry checks. Check cards is the only thing I use and avoid companies that do not accept creditcards/debit cards. Just me and my 2 cents. At the same time if I was going to get my car detailed I would go out of my way to pay with cash or what ever if I knew the service was first class. I still lean to AN's thoughts.

[foris2]

I have been using charge america in my business for almost two years and Throughly satisfied. http://www.chargeamerica.com/?11309

[MichaelM]

It would be nice not to accept credit cards and keep the percentage but it seems to me that our society is trending towards a cashless one. I can see not accepting credit cards not being a problem if you only did detailing with appointments in which you could give advance notice.

My problem with not accepting credit/debit is that I also offer handwashing which in itself is simply a moment in time. If at that moment my customer is in the area wanting to get their car cleaned but w/o cash or check then I lose out. Credit/debit is also very handy around the holidays for selling gift certificates, which in my case is usually a few thousand dollars.

[036 prowler]

I can Help on your Credit Card Rates

Hi all business owners,

The credit card industry is a multi Billion Dollar a year business.
I am the national sales manager for the largest credit card company in the country. I work for Chase Merchant Services. I am located in Southern California, however I can help you no matter where you are located.

I am a car lover and a Prowler owner, you can see my car in the prowler forum on this web site. If any one want's to compare your current rates or if you want to get merchant services for your business I will be happy to help all you car lovers out. This is a no cost FREE option to you. I will not be beat on rate or service. I save the average small merchant $1000.00 on there credit card fees per year.

My local merchants here are Pala Resort and Casino, Pechanga Resort and Casino, Temeku Hill Golf course, Red Hawk Golf Course and many many more.

I also supply Gift Cards, this is also a huge billion dollar industry! This will add big $$$ to your bottom line. 25% of Gift Cards sold are never used. This is free money for the business owner!

I have small mobile units that fit in the palm of your hand, many detailers use these out here and they love them. It allows them to process cards in the field and get instant authorization.

Feel free to contact me by phone : 951-694-4601
or by email : troygaston@verizon.net

Troy Gaston

[Mike Phillips]

Hi Troy,

Thanks for chiming in, I'm sure there will be some interest in your services by our members, plus they get to deal with a car crazy guy!

Mike

p.s.

I'm going to try to upload more pictures from the event soon...

[036 prowler]

Hi Mike,

Thank you for the class on Saturday. I was wondering does the D/A buffering backing plate come with the G-100 I ordered on Saturday? If not can you add it to my order?

Thanks

Troy